The fact that they are true. Knowing that these events actually happened gives them an edge over fictional horror. It makes us wonder what could have really been going on in those situations.
Old true horror stories can be a window into the past's darker aspects. They show how people dealt with the inexplicable in different eras. They might also have a moral or cautionary aspect. Like the Lizzie Borden case makes us think about family relations and the consequences of suspicion and mystery within a family.
The shock factor. These stories often involve extreme and abnormal behavior. Take Jeffrey Dahmer for instance. His acts of necrophilia and cannibalism are so far from what is considered normal human behavior that it shocks us. It makes us wonder how someone could become so deranged, and that draws us in. Also, the real - life aspect of it. It's not a fictional horror story. These are things that actually happened to real people, which makes it even more terrifying.
The sense of authenticity. Knowing that these events actually happened makes it scarier. For example, in 'The Act of Killing', the fact that the killers are re - enacting their real - life murders is both fascinating and terrifying.
The fact that they are based on real events. People are often drawn to the idea of the unknown and the real - life horrors that others have faced. It gives a sense of authenticity that fictional horror doesn't always have.
Well, it's the fear factor. These stories tap into our primal fears. Whether it's the fear of the dark, the unknown, or something more psychological like the fear of losing one's mind. They create scenarios that make us feel that fear deeply.
The mystery. Small towns are often seen as idyllic and safe, so when a horror story comes from there, it's a huge contrast. It makes people wonder how such dark things can happen in seemingly peaceful places.
The element of the unknown. There are so many unrecorded details about the day - to - day life in the jail. People love to fill in the gaps with their own speculations, whether it's about the relationships between inmates or the secrets that the jail guards might have had. This makes the stories very captivating as everyone can create their own version of what really happened in the Old Charleston Jail.
The element of truth. Since these are real - life events, it makes them more relatable and scarier. We know that such things could potentially happen to us.
The fact that they are true. It makes you realize that such terrifying things can actually happen in the real world. It's not just made - up fiction.
The authenticity. Since they are real, they have an element of truth that fictional stories might lack. We can relate to the real people and situations in true life stories.
The atmosphere plays a huge role. Take 'The Woman in Black'. The desolate, fog - covered moors and the old, creepy house create a perfect backdrop for horror. The mystery of the woman in black and what she represents adds to the allure. Also, the psychological aspect is important. In 'Black Swan', the main character's descent into madness as she tries to achieve perfection in her role is both a mystery and a horror.